FAQs

Please log into your account on www.invivohealthcare.com, go to your dashboard and select the “Book a Support Call” option on left side of the page.

Click on the Log In / Register button, which will bring up the patient registration form initially, but there is a button below for practitioners to sign up. There are a few fields to fill out and you’ll need to attach your qualifications to your application, tick the boxes for GDPR and T&C’s and then your application will be sent through to our Customer Services department. Your application will be looked at within 48 hours.

You must be working with a Healthcare Provider that is registered with Invivo to be able to register online. Click on the Log In / Register button which will automatically bring up the patient registration form. There are a few fields to fill out and you’ll need to enter your healthcare providers code that they will need to provide you with. Once your registration form is completed you’ll be able to purchase products from our website.

You have to opt into our commission structure in order to earn commission. This is done by logging into our main website www.invivohealthcare.com, go to your dashboard and click on the Commissions tab. There is a tick box to opt into the commission scheme. All orders made and paid at RRP to us directly by your patients from the date you opt in will earn you commission. We run commission statements every financial quarter. We will email you the statement requesting you send us an invoice for the amount earned and include your bank details. Our finance team will settle your invoices directly into your bank account on receipt of your invoice.

The clinician price will show in your basket, however when the patient logs in they will only see RRP.

Our clinical team will ring you on the number you have provided when booking the appointment on line.

The majority of supplements are formulated for people over the age of 12. Within our catalogue and our website, each individual supplement will have specifics of the age range in which it is appropriate for. Our clinical team are happy to help if you have any specific questions you might have.

Yes! Please seek advice from our Clinical Support Team to find out which products from our range would be most appropriate for your patients’ needs.

If it is a probiotic then yes, it can be opened up. All of our botanical formulations can be opened as well, but often the nature of the botanical ingredients means the taste may be bitter. Some people still choose do this and open the capsule into smoothies to increase compliance.

Every individual product on the website will have the age range that it is suitable for. All probiotics and prebiotics are dosed at the same dose as an adult, as they have been researched at these doses in children.

Ideally we would like samples sent on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday to ensure there are no delays at the post office. We do appreciate this isn’t always possible though; if the sample can only be sent on a Thursday or Friday please continue with sending it using the fastest return postal service available to you.

The turnaround time for our EcologiX tests is 15 working days once it’s received at the lab. For other tests that are offered please contact our Customer Services department who will be able to help you.

Results will always be uploaded onto the healthcare providers secure encrypted portal to be downloaded and shared with your patient. Healthcare Providers will receive an email notification when we receive a sample from their client and again when the results are ready.

For orders sent out in the UK the return package is not paid for; we recommend using Royal Mail Guaranteed next day delivery service. For orders sent to countries outside the UK, there is no pre-paid return shipping included; it is the responsibility of the patient to arrange and pay for returning their sample to us. The only exception is Ireland, where there is an additional charge on your order to include returning shipping.

We will set this up after we receive the first sample into us, either from yourself or your patient.

The results portal is a different website to the main Invivo Healthcare website – you’ll need to log into each one separately. Your usernames may be the same and it can be your choice to have the same password for both websites.

We are currently unable to send our EcologiX test kits to the United States as we do not have a licence to sell them there at the moment.

The responsible party box on the TRF is only required if the patient is a child, for example the responsible party may be the mother.

For the GI EcologiX test we suggest 2 years and above. This is because the microbiome is still developing within the first 24 months and therefore the test will offer limited actionable information before this time.

We prefer if you can stop probiotics 7 days before the taking the sample. If this will cause too much distress, then as long as you can stop 24 hours before hand, and let your health care provider know so they can keep that in mind when interpreting the results

Our laboratory has multiple quality assurance checks on the viability of the sample. If they receive a sample that does not meet those rigorous requirements, they will reach out immediately to obtain another sample from you.

PPI’s are used to reduce stomach acid, which in turn can induce changes in our microbiota and pancreatic enzymes secretions. If you are using PPIs as a long term therapy, it is worth staying on them whilst testing to notice these changes, and to just let your healthcare provider know so they can interpret the results in light of that.

We recommend stopping digestive enzymes 24 hours before collecting the sample

We recommend stopping any antimicrobial botanicals 7 days before collection

You can continue taking any vitamins and minerals up to the time of test.

Supplemental garlic is classed as a natural antimicrobial, so we would recommend stopping it 7 days before collecting the sample. Garlic can still be eaten in cooking in normal amounts.

If We would prefer for them to just wait until they pass a stool normally. However if they are already taking laxatives on an ongoing basis, it is fine for them to continue to do so.

You may take a sample during pregnancy, but just bear in mind many antimicrobial interventions cannot be used within pregnancy or lactation, so it might be worth considering holding off until afterwards.

It is best to wait a minimum of 2 weeks post chemotherapy before collecting the sample.

When someone has their colon removed, it will impact the growth of the microbiota, so it will be hard to compare that to a ‘normal’ microbiome result. However, the host markers are all still relevant, as well as any pathogens that are present.

It is best to wait 4 weeks post colonoscopy before collecting the sample.

We do not measure worms directly, as they are often best seen by sighting them or the ova in the stool when collection takes place.

We have chosen not to measure Beta-glucuronidase on the test, due to issues around stability that did not pass our own internal quality controls. We have some great resources in our education section on the role that the microbiome plays in oestrogen metabolism, which we highly recommended viewing.

Steatocrit is notoriously unstable and can fluctuate depending on what has been recently eaten. Instead we have opted to measure bile acids in the GI EcologiX, which we find to be a more clinically relevant way of assessing fat digestion.

We have chosen to measure the H. Pylori antigen in the stool, as this is line with the same methodology that the NHS uses here in the UK.

No, we prefer you to wait until 1 day past menstruation cessation as to not cross-contaminate the sample, which may impact the FIT result.

Beta Defensin 2 is an antimicrobial peptide made by the gut wall, and it is an important component of a healthy gut immune system. An extremely low amount (zero) may indicate the innate immunity needs a bit more support, a high amount may indicate an infection or virus.

If these types of fermented foods are a regular part of your diet, we ask you to continue their usage as normal.

It is not yet known how the COVID vaccine can impact the microbiome.

The test offers many markers associated with both onset and proliferation of SIBO. Please book a call with our clinical team for further information.

Please wait for 1 day post menstruation before collecting the sample.

As long as the person is above the age of consent, which in the UK is 16, and is comfortable inserting the swab into their vagina, then yes it is suitable.

It is often best to test when your symptoms are at their most prevalent. If you are testing for general information and not due to symptoms, then you can test at any point of the month that you are not menstruating.

We prefer that you use the pH strip we provide, for consistency of results.

We ask that you stop any short term antibiotics or antifungals 2 weeks prior to collecting the sample.

The Vaginal EcologiX can be used in pregnancy, but we ask that you get your healthcare provider (such as your GP or midwife) to take the swab for you.

We require a salivary sample in special collection device that is present in the test kit.

We recommend that you stop any short term antibiotics or antifungals 2 weeks prior to taking the test.

We recommend taking the sample early in the morning, as we ask you not to eat, drink or clean your teeth 30 minutes before collection. However, it can be done anytime of the day as long, as this guidance is met.

An oral sample is stable for 7 days after collection.

There is nothing in the test kit that should interfere with their pregnancy. However, it is always recommended to discuss this with the healthcare provider for approval before continuing with the collection.

Do not smoke for an hour before collecting the base line sample.

Soft stools or light diarrhoea is ok and will not interfere with the test. Heavy diarrhoea with no solids could impact the test as it could cause a flushing of the colonic bacteria, so we would not see the expected rise of gas in the samples. If a client has heavy diarrhoea they are requested to wait a day or 2 until it improves.

While there are no studies regarding this, if possible consider waiting for 1 week for the temperature to subside before sample collection. If this is not possible, the health care provider should be informed so they can account for this when reviewing the results.

If this is the only variance from the preparation diet it should not affect the outcome in a significant way. The client should note this on their test paperwork and inform their health care provider to consider this when interpreting the test results.

While these procedures will not interfere with small intestine gas values, they may have an impact on the last 3 collected specimens which are used for control. As a result, the client should wait 2 weeks after an enema or hydro colonic cleanse to carry out their SIBO sample collection.

Garlic should not be taken for 7 days prior to sample collection.

If possible consider discontinuing one week prior to sample collection. If this is not possible, the health care provider should be informed so they can account for this when reviewing the results.

It is suggested to not take probiotics during the preparation day through to the end of breath collections.

Vitamins should not be taken for 24 hours before collecting samples.

While it has not been specifically studied, there should be no reason that this would affect the test.

Yes, the samples are processed using a Quintron Machine.

While there have been no specific studies, antacids should have little impact on the small intestine as they are designed to reduce gas in the stomach.

No, they will not.

If possible, discontinue 38 hours prior to sample collection. If this is not possible, the test requisition form should be noted and the health care provider advised so they can consider this when interpreting the test results.

Magnesium should be stopped during the preparation diet.

While it has not been specifically studied, anything that causes a flushing of the GI tract could impact the results.

Bone and water only with no seasoning. If meat is still attached the bone this is fine but not moderate quantities.

It is recommended to wait 14 days before collecting breath samples.

The preparation diet removes food from the GI tract before adding Lactulose or Glucose to start the bacteria fermenting.

For the user’s safety, do not remove the rubber casing on the needle when doing a SIBO test.

If they are able to follow the collection procedure accurately then an 11 year old can do a SIBO test.

No, SIBO tests identify increases in Ho2 and Co2 production.

The preparation diet needs to be restarted if undertaking multiple SIBO tests to ensure the substrate from the previous test has completely left the system so as not effect subsequent sample collections.

The client can carry on their diet as normal as long as they do not consume anything outside of the recommended food items during their preparation.

This product does contain very small trace amounts of iodine from naturally occurring sources and, as such, the actual amount in the product will vary by batch. In our last batch tested the amount of iodine was approximately 5% NRV so should not present an issue for those with thyroid conditions.

Bio.Clear Endotox-LV uses Hibiscus syriacus L. in the formula.

The manufacturer use Saccharomyces cerevisiae which is also known as ‘brewer’s yeast’ or ‘baker’s yeast’, it is not pathogenic. During the production process, the yeasts have been inactivated and dried. ‘Live’ yeast and moulds will be picked up by the testing, the standard is <100cfu/g.

Bio.Clear Oestro is not contraindicated with Clomid.

Our broccoli seed extract contains 13% glucoraphanins. With the myrosinase the anticipated conversion to sulphoraphane is to around 1.7mg per capsule (from 75 mg of broccoli seed extract).

Yes, Bio.Clear Oestro supports oestrogen metabolism in all genders. 

No, Echinacea belongs in the daisy family and should not be taken by someone with an allergy to these types of plants.

The bacterial strains in this formulation have been genetically tested to make sure they do not carry genes for histamine production, so can be used in people on a low histamine diet.

There are a few factors in play here – powders can settle over time, the density may vary from batch to batch and though there is a standardised tsp size, home measuring equipment (including scales) can have small variations. The best way to ensure you are getting the correct dosage is to weigh your dosages as the CFU are standardised per gram.

Generally, probiotic bacteria are well tolerated in individuals, with very minimal side effects. However, all our microbiomes are unique, and introducing new live cultures into your body may result in transient changes in bowel movements and possibly a small amount of bloating. These changes should settle within a few days of you acclimatising to your new friendly bacterial strains! If symptoms continue, stop taking the product and reach out to your healthcare professional to have a discussion.   

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

This can be mixed into food or drinks, as long as it’s not hot or acidic (e.g. fruit juice). 

The caffeine content per 3 capsules is 4mg, approximately equivalent to 1/5 of a cup of green tea.

The polyphenols in Bio.Me essential have a prebiotic action which is considered safe for those people with SIBO, as it doesn’t feed the gas producing bacteria. If you are concerned if it is right for you, check with your health care provider about its suitability for your situation. 

Yes, the prebiotic action of the polyphenols works well alongside the use of probiotics 

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

All of the ingredients contained in Bio.Me Femme C are certified kosher.

Yes, Femme C can be used by any gender with Candida albicans.

Yes, this product was also researched for use in gastrointestinal Candida albicans too.

There are a few factors in play here – powders can settle over time, the density may vary from batch to batch and though there is a standardised tsp size, home measuring equipment (including scales) can have small variations. The best way to ensure you are getting the correct dosage is to weigh your dosages as the CFU are standardised per gram.

The bacterial strains in this formulation have been genetically tested to make sure they do not carry genes for histamine production, so can be used in people on a low histamine diet.

Femme UT has been finished product tested and is free from lactose and casein. In the process of culturing the bacteria there is the possibility that the bacteria have come in contact with dairy, even though there is none in the end product. This is why we don’t claim the product to be vegan.

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

Generally, probiotic bacteria are well tolerated in individuals, with very minimal side effects. However, all our microbiomes are unique, and introducing new live cultures into your body may result in transient changes in bowel movements and possibly a small amount of bloating. These changes should settle within a few days of you acclimatising to your new friendly bacterial strains! If symptoms continue, stop taking the product and reach out to your healthcare professional to have a discussion.   

As long as the food or drink is not hot, and not acidic (like fruit juice) then that would fine to do.  

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

The bacterial strains in this formulation have been genetically tested to make sure they do not carry genes for histamine production, so can be used in people on a low histamine diet. 

The studies on this probiotic formulation were undertaken in people with IBD taking the medication Mesalazine at the same time as the probiotic, with beneficial effects. However, we always recommend you check with your healthcare provider to know if this combination would be suitable for you 

Generally, probiotic bacteria are well tolerated in individuals, with very minimal side effects. However, all our microbiomes are unique, and introducing new live cultures into your body may result in transient changes in bowel movements and possibly a small amount of bloating. These changes should settle within a few days of you acclimatising to your new friendly bacterial strains! If symptoms continue,

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

Yes, the contents of Bio.Me Mind + Mood may be mixed with cold food or liquid.

The bacterial strains in this formulation have been genetically tested to make sure they do not carry genes for histamine production, so can be used in people on a low histamine diet.  

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

The bacterial strains in this formulation have been genetically tested to make sure they do not carry genes for histamine production, so can be used in people on a low histamine diet.  

There are a few factors in play here – powders can settle over time, the density may vary from batch to batch and though there is a standardised tsp size, home measuring equipment (including scales) can have small variations. The best way to ensure you are getting the correct dosage is to weigh your dosages as the CFU are standardised per gram.

Bio.Me Oral is suitable for use during all stages of pregnancy.

Bio.Me Prebio GOS contains lactose and should be avoided by individuals with a lactose issue, or taken with Bio.Revive Digestive +, which contains lactase.

There are a few factors in play here – powders can settle over time, the density may vary from batch to batch and though there is a standardised teaspoon size, home measuring equipment (such as scales) can have small variations. The best way to ensure you are getting the correct dosage is to weigh your dosages as the products are standardised per gram.

Bio.Me Prebio GOS contains a specific sugar structure (linkages) that results in increasing Bifidobacterium with also a capacity for feeding a broader variety of commensal bacteria. Bio.Me Prebio is a functionally equivalent to Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs). A further result of this structure there is an improved tolerance and digestive experience (compared to others in market)..

Our GOS is heat stable and dissolves well in hot or cold water and can also be put in hot drinks or food. Once opened, use within 2 months. 

GOS is a specially chosen prebiotic as it is well tolerated in the majority of people, unlike some other prebiotics like Fructooligosaccharides (FOS). However, all of our microbiomes are unique, so when trying to change your microbiome there may be some transient changes in bowel movements and abdominal sensations, none of which should be uncomfortable.  

In people with sensitive stomachs, we suggest starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing to the full dose over a number of weeks, so only the benefits are noticeable! 

PHGG is a specially chosen prebiotic as it is well tolerated in the majority of people, unlike some other prebiotics like Fructooligosaccharides (FOS). However, all of our microbiomes are unique, so when trying to change your microbiome there may be some transient changes in bowel movements and abdominal sensations, none of which should be uncomfortable.  

In people with sensitive stomachs, we suggest starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing to the full dose over a number of weeks, so only the benefits are noticeable! 

This product is best mixed into a hot beverage to help it to dissolve. It is heat stable so can be used in food and hot drinks where it dissolves easily. Avoid mixing into cold water as this may make it clump, but it’s great mixed into a smoothie and as a healthy addition to baking. Once opened, use within 2 months.

There are a few factors in play here – powders can settle over time, the density may vary from batch to batch and though there is a standardised tablespoon size, home measuring equipment (such as scales) can have small variations.  The best way to ensure you are getting the correct dosage is to weigh your dosages as the products are standardised per gram.

PHGG has been consumed by pregnant and lactating women for years, and it has been shown to be a safe way to improve regularity and reduce cramping and bloating. As with any supplement, however, please consult with your health care practitioner prior to use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

All of the ingredients contained in Bio.Me Prebio PHGG are certified kosher.

PHGG undergoes hydrolysis by enzyme, which is then inactivated by heat. This enables the bonds in the product to be accessible to microbes to use as fuel source.

Bio.Me S.Bourlardii can be taken at any time, with or without food.

Our probiotics are shelf-stable at normal UK room temperature in a dry space. Use within 2 months of opening.

Though the product has been filtered to remove some of the casein, traces do still remain. We have tested this independently and determined this at the concentration of approximately 14ppm.

Bio.Revive Colostrum does contain lactose and should be avoided by individuals with a lactose issue (or taken with Digestive+ capsules, which contain lactase).

The approximate value of lactoferrin is 6.1mg per serving, this is the average value derived from testing from the last 2 batches.

This product does contain iodine from naturally occurring sources and, as such, the actual amount in the product will vary by batch. We recommend that patients with thyroid conditions avoid taking this product.